Want to beat load shedding with solar? Here's how it works and how much it costs

Households and businesses are showing increasing interest in solar PV systems as load shedding continues, with solar PV providers receiving up to 1 700 applications from households per day and more than 75 installations taking place daily.

This is according to the South African Photovoltaic Industry (Sapvia). As a result of the increasing demand, however, prices for these systems are being driven higher, the industry body said. Depending on their size, these systems can cost upwards of R80 000 for a small household system - and much more for property developers.

Moreover, another factor influencing price is that components are imported and subject to rand volatility.